Wafa Saeed is an accomplished nonprofit executive, consultant, and entrepreneur recognized for her ability to lead with vision, build powerful coalitions, and drive transformational change across communities. With over a decade of leadership in philanthropy, advocacy, and organizational development, she has partnered with nonprofit organizations, philanthropic institutions, and local and state governments throughout Colorado to advance equity, strengthen institutions, and expand opportunities for underserved communities.

At The Colorado Trust, Wafa spearheaded Eight28: Celebrating Black Philanthropy, a groundbreaking initiative that elevated the visibility of Black-led nonprofits, cultivated donor engagement, and built sustainable pathways for Black philanthropy in Colorado. This work continues to strengthen community-driven giving and reshape the philanthropic landscape.

Wafa made history as the first National CEO & Executive Director of the Sudanese American Public Affairs Association (SAPAA), where she launched Colorado’s first chapter and scaled four flagship programs that became national models. Among them, her Youth Leadership Program—which she personally designed and implemented—has mentored dozens of high school and college students and has since been adopted by nonprofits nationwide.

Her leadership extends beyond organizational management to the global stage. She was selected as a U.S. Delegate to the Human Rights Summit in Istanbul, where she presented on her advocacy for immigrants and refugees in the United States, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities and advancing the dialogue on human rights and democratic governance in Sudan.

In addition to her nonprofit leadership, Wafa is the founder of ProjectEDGE Consulting (Educate. Develop. Grow. Empower.), where she advises nonprofits, foundations, and businesses on community engagement, strategic partnerships, fundraising, and leadership development. Her consulting work has strengthened organizations across Colorado and the Southern U.S., bridging communities with resources, philanthropy, and public institutions.

Wafa’s impact has been recognized with multiple honors, including recently, the Webb Leadership Award from the Urban Leadership Foundation of Colorado, which highlights her as an outstanding and transformative leader in the state.

Known for her passion, dependability, and authenticity, Wafa is a trusted leader and mentor whose work demonstrates the power of engagement and advocacy to create lasting impact. She continues to champion human rights, immigrant and refugee support, and Black-led philanthropy while empowering the next generation of leaders.